Upgrading from 45LB minn-kota bow mount to a 55LB?

[Newbie@boats]

Currently have a 45LB on my 17ft sea nymph and I find it very difficult for it to control the boat with any wind gust, I usually set it on one and cruise the shore line but with wind involved I am using 3 sometimes 4.....would a 55 help this out at all or should I just go with a 24V 70lb?

 

[fishrdan]

You'll be kicking yourself if you don't go with the 70#. 10# more thrust, isn't really that much in the conditions your having issue with. I have a 70# on my (heavy) 18'er, and find it "sufficient". Wished I had 80, but found a smoking deal on a 70...

In bluebird conditions you could get away with a 30# TM, not so much if you're fighting wind, waves and current.